Renovated Heritage Site Suffers Structural Failure
On 19 May, a large section of roof tiles fell from the Fengyang Drum Tower in Fengyang County, Anhui Province, just months after a RMB 3.41 million renovation was completed.
The collapse occurred around 6:30pm and affected the tower’s eastern roof section.
Authorities swiftly evacuated onlookers and erected safety barriers by 11pm to prevent further danger.
The site had recently reopened in March 2024 following extensive repairs aimed at addressing long-standing structural issues.
Renovation History Raises Accountability Questions
The Fengyang Drum Tower, first constructed in 1375 and rebuilt in 1995, has faced recurring issues—including loose tiles and damaged eaves—since 2017. In response, county officials launched a restoration project in 2023. Following a public tender, repair works including roof and beam replacement and structural reinforcement began in September 2023 and concluded in March 2024.
Despite the recent restoration, videos circulating online showed large numbers of roof tiles crashing to the ground, prompting concerns over the quality and oversight of the renovation work.
Emergency Response and Investigation Underway
In response to the collapse, Fengyang County activated emergency protocols, and the Chuzhou City government formed a joint investigative team. The team includes disciplinary inspectors, urban development officials, cultural heritage experts, and engineers.
On 24 May, the team announced disciplinary actions. Investigators suspended the deputy county head of Fengyang County pending investigation. They also dismissed the director of the county’s Culture and Tourism Bureau, who also served as chairman of Fengyang Mingming Tourism Development Group.
Authorities have confirmed that further investigations into responsible entities and individuals are ongoing, with additional penalties expected under disciplinary and legal frameworks.
Tower’s Cultural Significance Remains Central
Locally known as Zhongdu Qiaolou, the Fengyang Drum Tower is a culturally significant monument. Although the original Ming-era structure was destroyed in 1853, authorities designated its base as a provincial key cultural relic protection unit in 1989. The 1995 reconstruction aimed to restore the tower’s historical legacy while integrating modern engineering practices.
Despite this recent setback, local officials have pledged to safeguard the tower’s integrity and ensure accountability for the renovation’s apparent shortcomings.
Watch the video here:
@bbcnews The Drum Tower was built in 1375 during the Ming Dynasty. #China #Fengyang #Anhui #MingDynasty #News #BBCNews
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